Preparing for Dental Implant Surgery

When dental implant has healed, the dentist will fit a crown right onto the implant, and now you have a new tooth which is extra durable and which looks and behaves exactly like your biological tooth.

Many patients who need dental implants are reluctant about getting one, because they are afraid of the implantation procedure. The best thing to do is ask your dentist what is the best way to prepare for the surgical intervention.

Factors such as sinus lift augmentation or bone grafting are extra procedures which might be carried out if you do not have sufficient bones mass for the implant to fuse nicely.

Generally, if the bone is healthy in your jaw, the dentist will only place the titanium dental implant, and then a few months later (3 to 6 months, depending in the healing), he will place the tooth cap onto the implant.

In case you struggle with a huge dental phobia, you could also ask your dentist for an alternative, such as sedation dentistry. Here are some more important tips, which will help you prepare for the procedure:

Dental Implant Surgery and Anesthesia

Remember that the dental implant procedure happens under local anesthesia. If your dentist tells you to avoid eating anything, you should respect his orders. Otherwise, make sure to eat well before the procedure, because after that you will not be able to consume anything for quite a while.

Dental Implant Procedure and Women

Women should avoid applying any kind of makeup. The skin on your face, especially around the mouth needs to be disinfected, and makeup will only make it more difficult to disinfect properly.

Dental Implant Surgery and Men

Men should present themselves well shaved, because then the disinfection of the skin can happen more efficiently.

Before and After Dental Implant Surgery: Antibiotics

If your dentist/surgeon has prescribed antibiotics, make sure to take them both before and after the surgery. This way you will make sure to keep at bay any kind of possible infection.

Dental Implant Procedure: Fear and Stress

There is no need to present yourself to the dental office under a huge amount of stress. Think of it that this is a procedure that you need for your health, and that after it is over you will enjoy teeth as strong and durable as your biological ones

Dental Implant Procedure: Surgeon

Do not be ashamed to ask the surgeon about all the steps of the surgery. Knowing step by step what is going to happen during surgery, will make you less anxious and feel more in control.